As the final major travel weekend of the summer approaches, the New York State Troopers PBA is reminding drivers to follow the state’s Move Over Law. The law requires motorists to slow down and change lanes when approaching any stopped vehicle along the roadway.
“Troopers selflessly dedicate themselves to serving New Yorkers every day, but the unfortunate reality is even the most routine traffic stops can turn dangerous in an instant if people don’t use caution,” said PBA President Charles W. Murphy. “Move Over is not a suggestion. It’s the law. Everyone — including our brave Troopers and other motorists on the road — deserves to make it home safely this Labor Day weekend.”
Struck-by crashes — when a motorist hits a law enforcement officer outside their vehicle — remain one of the leading causes of injury-related deaths in policing. Nationwide, six officers have died in struck-by incidents so far this year, according to the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund. Last year, there were 17 such fatalities across the country.
New York has also seen several troopers injured in 2025, including one earlier this month in the Capital Region when a driver hit a patrol car during a traffic stop, leaving a trooper with back and neck injuries.
During Labor Day weekend in 2024, Troopers issued more than 200 Move Over Law tickets and more than 10,000 total tickets for speeding, distracted driving, and other violations. This year, law enforcement is already stepping up patrols as part of a statewide crackdown on impaired and reckless driving.
“Saving a life is well worth spending a few extra minutes getting to where you’re going,” Murphy said. “Our message to drivers is simple: Slow down, move over and stay safe.”
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